What is the purpose of performing initial assessments in new patients?

The purpose of performing initial assessments in new patients is primarily to establish baseline data for comparison. This baseline data refers to the patient's current health status and serves as a reference point for any future evaluations. By gathering comprehensive information during an initial assessment, healthcare providers can monitor changes in the patient's condition over time, track the efficacy of treatments, and identify trends that may indicate an improvement or deterioration in health. This is critical for delivering effective and personalized patient care, as it allows healthcare professionals to make informed decisions based on the patient's specific needs and responses to various interventions.

While preparing the patient psychologically, identifying potential medical issues, and developing a rapport can be significant components of patient care, the fundamental aim of an initial assessment is to collect measurable and observable data that can be used to inform ongoing treatment and management of the patient's health.